Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02488683 2004-11-30
RAILROAD CAR HATCH COVER HINGE STRUCTURE AND
METHOD FOR CONNECTING A HATCH COVER TO A RAILCAR
Field of the Invention
[00011 The present invention generally relates to railcar hatch covers and,
more
particularly to a hinge structure and method for pivotally connecting a hatch
cover to a
railcar.
Background of the Invention
[00021 Railroad hopper cars have been used for years to transport
particulate/granular
materials. Covered railroad hopper cars are provided with a roof for
protecting the
hopper car contents from contaminants and weather related elements. Access to
an
interior of a covered railcar from above is accomplished through a hatch
opening in the
roof of the railcar. Cowled coaming, upstanding from the roof, typically
extends
peripherally about the hatch opening.
[00031 The hatch opening in the railcar roof is closed during transport by a
series of
individual hatch covers. In a closed position, each hatch cover lies across an
upper
edge of the railcar coaming and, preferably, seals the hatch opening. Along
one side
thereof, the hatch cover is typically provided with a series of hinge
structures which
are secured to an upper surface of and extend outwardly from a side of the
hatch cover.
Typically, a free end of the hinge structure is pivotally connected to a
stationary
bracket extending upwardly from the railcar roof and embracing the free end of
the
hinge structure. In this regard, the free end of the hinge structure is
usually configured
with an eye-like opening which receives an elongated hinge pin or bolt
extending
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through aligned openings on the bracket.
[0004] As will be appreciated, there are several different manufacturers of
railcars.
Moreover, there are numerous hopper car designs having hatch openings of
varying
lengths and types and each requiring a specific hatch cover construction. To
exacerbate the problem, the various railcar manufacturers design the hatch
openings
with coaming which extends upwardly from the railcar roof differing distances.
[0005] There are also numerous variables existing in hatch covers used with
known
hopper cars. Different railcar hatch openings can have different widths,
different hinge
pin to coaming distances, different hinge pin diameters, as well as different
brackets.
In view of these differences and other related variables, heretofore it has
been
practically impossible to provide a single hinge structure adaptable to all of
these
variables while maintaining a closed hatch cover in a sealed relationship
relative to the
railcar coaming. As such, replacement of the hinge structures to cooperate
with the
hinge brackets and/or replacement of the brackets on the car roof to cooperate
with the
hinge structures is required. Of course, replacement of either the hinge
structures on
the hatch covers or the hinge brackets on the railcar is a time consuming and
tedious
process Moreover, due consideration needs to be given to the exposure of the
hinge
structures to weather related elements and the problems created by such
weather
related elements (i.e. corrosion) to the hinge structure components used to
pivotally
connect the hatch cover to the railcar.
[00061 In view of these problems and the many different variables existing in
the field
of hopper cars equipped with hatch covers, there is a continuing need and
desire for a
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hinge structure configured to universally allow for pivotal securement of a
railcar
hatch cover to any of several different railcar constructions whereby
significantly
reducing the inventory a supplier must carry to satisfy the needs of the
industry.
Summary of the Invention
100071 In view of the above, and in accordance with one aspect of the present
invention, there is provided hinge structure including a universal adapter
located
toward one end of and for
allowing the hinge structure to be pivotally connected to different stationary
brackets
having differing pivot axes. The universal adapter defines multiple openings
disposed
in spaced, generally parallel relation relative to each other whereby
significantly
enhancing the versatility of the hinge structure to differing brackets and
railcar
constructions.
[00081 Preferably, the universal adapter of the hinge structure defines a
first opening
and
a second opening, which are offset relative to each other. In one form, the
universal
adapter is configured such that an axis defined by the first opening is
positioned both
upwardly and in laterally offset relation from an axis defined by the second
opening.
[00091 In a preferred embodiment, each opening defined by the universal
adapter has
a closed and generally circular marginal edge. In a most preferred form, the
closed and
generally circular marginal edge of the first opening is of a different size
than the
closed and generally circular marginal edge of the second opening.
[00101 To further enhance hinge structure versatility, a first end of the
hinge structure
has a generally planar configuration to promote attachment to various
structures, i.e.,
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railcar hatch covers or the like, while the universal adapter comprises one of
a plurality
of interchangeable apertured pieces releasably securable toward the second end
of the
hinge structure. Preferably, the second end portion of the hinge structure has
the one
of such pieces comprising the universal adapter releasably secured thereto in
a manner
inhibiting rotation of the apertured piece relative to the hinge structure. In
a most
preferred embodiment, the universal adapter comprises one of a plurality of
modular
inserts configured for interchangeability with other modular inserts within a
socket
arranged toward the second end of the hinge structure.
[00111 In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided
hinge
structure for connecting a hatch cover to a railcar. The hinge structure
includes a first
end configured for attachment to the hatch cover and a separate universal
adapter
arranged toward a second end of the hinge structure. According to this aspect,
the
universal adapter defines multiple openings disposed in spaced, generally
parallel
relation relative to each other whereby permitting pivotal attachment of the
hinge
structure and thereby said hatch cover to different brackets on the railcar
having hinge
pins arranged at different heights relative to coaming on the railcar.
[00121 According to this aspect, the adapter defines a first opening and a
second
opening, with the first and second openings being offset relative to each
other.
Preferably, the universal adapter is configured such that an axis defined by
the first
opening is positioned upwardly and in laterally offset relation from an axis
defined by
the second opening.
[00131 In a preferred form, each opening defined by the adapter is configured
with a
closed and generally circular marginal edge. In a most preferred form, the
closed and
generally circular marginal edge of the first opening is differently sized
from the
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closed and generally circular marginal edge of the second opening whereby
allowing
for different diameters hinge pins to be accommodated for use with the hinge
structure.
[00141 In accordance with this embodiment, the universal adapter preferably
comprises an apertured piece that is interchangeable with other apertured
pieces.
Preferably, each apertured piece has a series of openings arranged in a
different pattern
relative to each other whereby expanding the versatility of the hinge
structure in
combination with different railcar brackets. Moreover, in a preferred form,
each
apertured piece is releasably engageable with the hinge structure in a manner
inhibiting
rotation of such piece relative to the hinge structure. In a preferred form,
each
apertured piece is configured as a modular insert to be releasably
accommodated
within a socket defined by and toward one end of the hinge structure.
[0015] In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, a hinge system
is
provided for connecting a first member to a second member for hinged movement
about a fixed pivot axis. The hinge system includes a first hinge piece
connected to
one of the first and second members, with the first hinge piece defining a
reference
plane, and a second hinge piece connected to the other of the first and second
members. The second hinge piece accommodates a hinge pin defining the fixed
pivot
axis between the first and second members. Moreover, a separate universal
adapter is
releasably secured to one of the first and second pieces. The universal
adapter defines
multiple sleeve-like openings, each sized to accommodate a lengthwise portion
of the
hinge pin. The multiple openings in the adapter are at different distances
relative to
the reference plane on the first hinge piece such that differing second hinge
pieces
having the hinge pin disposed at differing distances from the reference plane
of the
first hinge piece are pivotally securable to the first hinge piece by moving
the hinge
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pin to that opening in the universal adapter closely aligned to the axis of
the hinge pin
accommodated by the second hinge piece.
[00161 In accordance with this aspect, the universal adapter defines a first
sleeve-like
opening and a second sleeve-like opening, with the first and second sleeve-
like
openings being vertically and laterally offset relative to each other. In a
preferred
form, each sleeve-like opening defined by
the adapter has a closed and generally circular marginal edge, with the closed
and
generally circular marginal edge of the first sleeve-like opening being
differently sized
from the closed and generally circular marginal edge of the second sleeve-like
opening.
[00171 Preferably, the universal adapter comprises one of a plurality of
modular
inserts. In this embodiment, a first end portion of one of the first and
second pieces is
configured to releasably accommodate any one of the plurality of modular
inserts in
non-rotatable relation relative to each other. In a most preferred form, the
one of the
hinge pieces is configured with a socket for releasably accommodating and
holding
one of the modular inserts therein in non-rotatable relation relative to the
hinge piece.
Moreover, each modular insert has a plurality of hinge pin accommodating
openings
arranging in a predetermined pattern. As will be appreciated, the pattern of
openings
in one modular insert differs from the pattern of openings in another modular
insert.,
Moreover, each opening in the insert defines a closed, generally circular
marginal edge
extending thereabout. To further promote versatility, the distance across the
marginal
edge defining the openings in the modular structures are of differing sizes
relative to
each other whereby allowing different inserts to accommodate hinge pins having
differing diameters.
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[0018] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, there is
provided a
method for connecting a railcar hatch cover for hinged movements about a fixed
axis
to brackets having aligned openings for receiving a hinge pin defining the
fixed axis.
The method comprises the steps of. providing a hinge structure configured
toward one
end with a generally planar portion for facilitating attachment of the hinge
structure to
the hatch cover, with the planar portion on the hinge structure defining a
reference
plane; providing a plurality of adapters, each adapter being located toward a
second
end of the hinge structure, with each adapter including multiple openings
arranged in
generally parallel relationship relative to each other, and with each opening
in the
adapter being disposed a differing distance from the reference plane defined
by the
hinge structure, and wherein spacings between a majority of the openings in
one
adapter differ from the spacing between a majority of the openings in another
adapter;
and, selecting that adapter having an opening disposed so as to proximate a
distance
measurable between the pivot axis defined by the aligned openings on the
brackets and
the hinge structure reference plane.
[0019] According to this aspect of the invention, the openings in the various
adapters
each differ in size relative to each other. Moreover, and in accordance with
this aspect
of the invention, each adapter is configured as a removable insert which is
accommodated within a socket defined toward the second end of the hinge
structure.
[0020] A primary feature of this invention relates to the provision of
structure which
can be assembled and/or retrofitted to affect a hinged connection between a
hatch
cover and any of several hopper car constructions.
[0021] Another feature of the present invention relates to the provision of
structure
allowing for a hatch cover to be hingedly connected to existing upstanding
brackets on
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a railcar wherein some of the existing brackets may be different from each
other or
have different diameter hinge pins which may be located at differing heights
relative
to coaming on the railcar.
[0022] Still another feature of this invention relates to the provision of a
low cost
structure for connecting a railcar hatch cover to brackets of differing styles
and
wherein the structure includes an adapter allowing the structure to be used in
different applications simply by selecting that adapter configured to
accommodate a
particular hinge pin diameter and/or hinge pin location.
[0022a] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention there is
provided a
railcar hatch cover hinge structure for mounting a railcar hatch cover to
apertured
stationary brackets on a railcar while allowing said hatch cover to pivotally
move
relative to coaming extending about a through defined by said railcar, said
hatch
cover hinge structure including a first end configured for attachment toward
one side
of the hatch cover, and a universal adapter operably secured toward a second
end of
said hatch cover hinge structure and in laterally spaced relation from said
one side of
said hatch cover, said universal adapter defining multiple openings disposed
in
spaced, parallel relation relative to each other, and with at least one of
said multiple
openings in said adapter being generally aligned with openings defined by said
stationary brackets to provide an axis of rotation for said hatch cover hinge
structure
which is spacially fixed relative to the coaming on said railcar whereby
permitting
pivotal mounting of said hinge structure and thereby said hatch cover to the
stationary brackets on the railcar having hinge pins arranged within
predetermined
distance ranges relative to the coaming on the railcar.
[0022b] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention there is
provided a
hinge structure for pivotally connecting a hatch cover to a railcar, said
hinge
structure including a first end configured for attachment to the hatch cover,
and a
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universal adapter arranged toward a second end of said hinge structure, said
universal adapter comprising an apertured piece that is interchangable with
other
apertured pieces, with each apertured piece defining a series of openings
arranged in
different patterns relative to each other and with said openings being
disposed in
spaced, generally parallel relation relative to each other whereby permitting
pivotal
attachment of said hinge structure and thereby said hatch cover to brackets on
the
railcar having hinge pins arranged at specified locations relative to coaming
on the
railcar, and wherein each apertured piece is releasably engageable with said
hinge
structure in a manner inhibiting relative rotation therebetween.
[0022c] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention there is
provided a
method for mounting a railroad car hatch cover to stationary brackets on a
railcar
roof structure so as to allow said hatch cover to pivotally move relative to
coaming
extending about a trough defined by said railcar roof structure, with said
stationary
brackets having aligned openings, said method comprising the steps of:
providing a hinge structure having a first end and a second end, with the
first end of said hinge structure being configured with a generally planar
portion
extending from the first end and toward the second end for facilitating
mounting of
said hinge structure to said hatch cover, with said planar portion defining a
reference
plane;
arranging any one of a plurality of adapters in association with the second
end of said hinge structure and in laterally spaced relation from said hatch
cover,
with each adapter in said plurality of adapters defining multiple openings
arranged
in generally parallel relationship relative to each other, and with one or
more of the
openings in each of the plurality of adapters being disposed at differing
distances
from the reference plane defined by said hinge structure, and wherein the
spacing
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between a majority of said openings in one adapter differing from the spacing
between the majority of said openings in another adapter; and
selecting that adapter having an opening which generally aligns with the
openings defined by said stationary brackets whereby permitting pivotal
mounting
of said hinge structure and thereby said hatch cover to the stationary
brackets on the
railcar with a hinge pin arranged within predetermined distance ranges
relative to the
coaming on the railcar and which passes through the aligned openings in said
stationary brackets and the opening in said adapter.
[0022d] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention there is
provided a
hinge system for mounting a first member to stationary brackets arranged on a
second member so as to allow said first member to pivotally move relative to
said
second member and between a first position, wherein said first and second
members
are arranged in predetermined relationship relative to each other, and a
second
position, with the stationary brackets on said second member defining a pair
of
generally aligned openings for accommodating a hinge pin passing through both
of
said openings to define a fixed pivot axis about which said first member
rotates, and
wherein said second member defines a reference plane, and with the aligned
openings in said stationary brackets being spaced at different distances from
said
reference plane depending upon a particular second member on which said
stationary brackets are arranged, and with said hinge system including an
elongated
hinge piece having a first end configured for attachment to said first member,
and a
universal adapter operably secured toward a second end of said hinge piece in
laterally spaced relation from the first end of said hinge piece and so as to
prevent
movement of the adapter relative to said hinge piece during operation of said
hinge
system, with said universal adapter defining multiple openings disposed in
spaced
parallel relation relative to each other and at different distances on said
adapter such
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that at least one of the multiple openings in said adapter generally aligns
with the
openings in the stationary brackets on the particular second member whereby
permitting pivotal mounting of said first member to the stationary brackets on
the
particular second member having hinge pins arranged within predetermined
distance
ranges relative to the reference plane of said second member and while
maintaining
the predetermined relationship between said first and second members when said
first member is in said first position, and wherein said universal adapter
comprises
one of a plurality of modular inserts, and wherein the second end of said
hinge piece
is configured to releasably accommodate any one of said plurality of modular
inserts
in non-rotatable relation relative to each other.
[0022e] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention invention
there is
provided a hinge system for mounting a first member to stationary brackets
arranged
on a second member so as to allow said first member to pivotally move relative
to
said second member and between a first position, wherein said first and second
members maintain are arranged in predetermined relation relative to each
other, and
a second position, with the stationary brackets on said second member defining
a
pair of generally aligned openings for accommodating a hinge pin passing
through
both of said openings to define a fixed pivot axis about which said first
member
rotates, and wherein said second member defines a reference plane, and with
the
aligned openings in said stationary brackets being spaced at different
distances from
said reference plane depending upon a particular second member on which said
stationary brackets are arranged, and with said hinge system including an
elongated
hinge piece having a first end configured for attachment to said first member,
and a
universal adapter operably secured toward a second end of said hinge piece in
laterally spaced relation from the first end of said hinge piece and so as to
prevent
movement of the adapter relative to the hinge piece during operation of said
hinge
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system, with said universal adapter defining multiple openings disposed in
spaced
parallel relation relative to each other and at different distances on said
adapter such
that at least one of the multiple openings in said adapter generally aligns
with the
openings in the stationary brackets on the particular second member whereby
permitting pivotal mounting of said first member to the stationary brackets on
the
particular second member having hinge pins arranged within predetermined
distance
ranges relative to the reference plane on said second member and while
maintaining
the predetermined relationship between said first and second members when said
member is in said first position, and wherein said universal adapter comprises
first
and second axially spaced and aligned inserts releasably secured toward the
second
end of said hinge piece.
[0023] These and other objects, aims and advantages of the invention will
become
more readily apparent from the following detailed description, the drawings
and the
appended claims.
Description of the Drawings
[0024] FIG. 1 is a top plan view, partially broken away, of a railroad hopper
car
embodying principals of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line 2 - 2 of FIG. 1;
[0026] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of that area encircled in FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 4 is an enlarged sectional view taken along line 4 - 4 of FIG. 2;
[0028] FIGS. 5 through 7 are elevational views of different universal adapters
forming part of the hinge structure of the present invention; and
[0029] FIG. 8 is a view schematically illustrating the relationship between
typical
railcar coaming and various hinge pin bracket openings on known existing
railroad
hopper cars.
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Detailed Description of the Invention
[00301 While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in multiple
forms,
there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a preferred
embodiment of the invention, with the understanding the present disclosure
sets forth
an exemplification of the invention which is not intended to limit the
invention to the
specific embodiment illustrated and described.
[0031] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicate
like
parts throughout the several views, the present invention is shown arranged in
combination with a covered railroad hopper car, generally designed by
reference
numeral 10. Railcar 10 includes a conventional box-like structure of rigid
construction including a roof 12 having an elongated longitudinally extending
hatch
opening 14. In one form, the opening 14 is defined toward a central portion of
the roof
12 for loading granular materials or commodity into the railcar 10.
[0032] The hatch opening 14 is covered by a hatch cover assembly 20. In one
form,
the hatch cover assembly 20 is comprised of a series of longitudinally
elongated and
aligned hatch covers 22A, 22B, 22C and 22D arranged in end-to-end relation
relative
to each other. As will be appreciated, the hatch cover assembly 20 can include
more
or less hatch covers than that shown without detracting or departing from the
spirit and
scope of the invention.
[0033] As known, each hatch cover 22A through 22D has a generally flat main
panel
23 adapted to be positioned over and sized to close the opening 14. In the
illustrated
embodiment, hatch covers 22A through 22D are individually movable between open
and closed positions relative to the hatch opening 14. In one form, the hatch
covers
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22A through 22D are maintained in a closed position by conventional batten
bars 24
and hold downs 26. As is known, one end of each batten bar 24 is pivotally
secured to
the roof 12 and extends across end regions of adjacent hatch covers. An
opposite end
of each batten bar 24 and the free end of each hold down 26 is releasably
secured to
the roof 12 by a conventional latch structure 28 similar to that disclosed in
U.S. Patent
No. 4,635,979 to 0. E. Blume.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, an upstanding flange or coaming 30 extends around
the
periphery of the hatch opening 14. Coaming 30 protrudes, in water-tight
relation,
upwardly from the roof 12 and terminates preferably in a rolled upper edge or
lip. A
gasket 32 is bonded or otherwise secured to an inner side or surface of each
hatch
cover at a location to effect a seal against the rolled edge of the railcar
coaming 30
when the hatch cover is closed. With the hatch cover properly positioned over
the
opening 14, gasket 32 deforms against the edge portion of the coaming 30 to
provide a
tight seal inhibiting moisture and other foreign material from contaminating
the
contents in the car 10.
[0035] Returning to FIG. 1, a plurality of stationary hinge pin brackets 34
are located
on the railcar roof 12 along one side of the hatch opening 14. Generally, the
hinge pin
brackets 34 secured to the railcar roof 12 are substantially similar relative
to each
other. Accordingly, only a single hinge pin bracket 34 will be described in
detail and
will suffice for an understanding of the hinge pin brackets 34 secured to the
railcar
roof. 12. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, each stationary pin bracket 34 typically
includes
a base 36, welded or otherwise secured to the railcar roof 12, and a pair of
spaced arms
38 and 38', formed integral with and extend upright from the base 36. As shown
in
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FIG. 3, the arms 38, 38' define a pair of horizontally aligned hinge pin holes
or
openings 40 disposed a predetermined height above the railcar roof 12.
Although only
one hopper car 10 is illustrated for exemplary purposes, and largely because
of the
number of different railcar builders, it will be appreciated the disposition
of the hinge
pin holes or openings 40 relative to the railcar coaming 30 (FIG. 2) are not
always
constant between car designs. 100361 In accordance with the
present invention, hinge structure 50 is provided for permitting the hatch
covers 22A
through 22D to be connected quickly and easily even to differing stationary
brackets
34 on the railcar 10. That is, the hinge structure 50 of this invention
advantageously
allows the hatch cover assembly 20 to be connected to brackets 34 designed
with hinge
pin holes or openings 40 disposed at differing heights relative to the railcar
coaming
30 as well as brackets 34 having different diameter hinge pins and differing
widths.
[00371 As shown in FIG. 2, hinge structure 50 is configured toward one end
thereof to
promote attachment of the hinge structure 50 to the main panel 23 of the
respective
hatch cover associated therewith. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, hinge structure
50 has a
separate universal adapter 60 located or arranged toward a second end thereof.
The
universal adapter 60 is configured to promote attachment of hinge structure 50
to
various brackets 34 as through a hinge pin 70 journaled by the arms 38, 38' of
the
brackets 34 and the universal adapter 60 of the hinge structure 50 whereby
allowing
for hinged movement of the hatch cover between closed and open positions and
about
a fixed axis 72 defined by hinge pin 70.
100381 In a preferred embodiment, hinge structure 50 includes a generally
planar leaf
portion 52 defining a reference plane RP for the hinge structure 50. In one
form, the
hinge structure leaf portion 52 is provided with one or more throughopenings
51
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toward one end thereof. The openings 51 allow the hinge structure 50 to be
permanently secured, as by rivets, bolts, or other conventional fasteners to
the main
panel 23 of an associated hatch cover. Each opening 51 in the leaf portion of
hinge
structure 50 defines an axis 53.
[0039] As shown, the universal adapter 60 is releasably secured toward the
second end
of the hinge structure 50. In one form, the universal adapter 60 is
accommodated
within a socket or recess 54, having a marginal edge 55. In one embodiment,
web
structure 56 extends from the second end of and longitudinally along the hinge
structure toward the first end to enhance the rigidity thereof. Preferably,
the universal
adapter 60 is accommodated within the socket or recess 54 defined by the hinge
structure 50 in a manner inhibiting relative rotational movement between the
hinge
structure 50 and the adapter 60 when the hatch cover moves between closed and
open
positions. In a most preferred form, the socket or recess 54 preferably is
configured to
releasably accommodate the adapter 60 while inhibiting relative rotation
therebetween.
[00401 As shown in FIG. 2, the universal adapter 60 defines multiple openings
62, 64
and 66 disposed in spaced generally parallel relation relative to each other.
Moreover,
and as shown, the axis 63 defined by the hole 62 in adapter 60 is positioned
vertically
and, preferably, in laterally offset relation relative to the axis 65 defined
by hole 64.
The axis 67 defined by hole 66 in adapter 60 is positioned vertically and,
preferably, in
laterally offset relation relative to both axes 63 and 65 defined by the holes
62 and 64,
respectively, of adapter 60.
[00411 The multiple openings 62, 64 and 66 in adapter 60 form a pattern
extending
generally
normal to and are all positioned in predetermined relation relative to the
hinge
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structure 50. In a preferred form, the axes 63, 65 and 67 defined by the
adapter
openings 62, 64 and 66, respectively, are all positioned in predetermined
vertical and
horizontal relation relative to the hinge structure. That is, the axes 63, 65
and 67
defined by the adapter openings 62, 64 and 66, respectively, are all
positioned in
predetermined relation relative to the hinge structure reference plane RP.
Moreover, in
a preferred form, the axes 63, 65 and 67 defined by the adapter openings 62,
64 and
66, respectively, are all positioned in predetermined relation or a
predetermined
distance PD from a reference location on the hinge structure 50. In one form,
the axes
63, 65, 67 are all spaced a predetermined distance PD from a centerline 53
defined by
one of the openings or holes 51 in the hinge structure leaf portion 52 (with
only the
predetermined distance PD of axis 65 relative to the centerline 53 of hole 51
being
shown for exemplary purposes). Of course, axes 63, 65 and 67 defined by the
adapter
openings 62, 64 and 66, respectively, could likewise be positioned in
predetermined
relation or a predetermined distance PD from another reference location on the
hinge
structure 50 without detracting or departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention.
Suffice it to say, in a most preferred embodiment, axes 63, 65 and 67 defined
by the
adapter openings 62, 64 and 66, respectively, are positioned relative to two
different
and generally normal planes defined, preferably, by the hinge structure 50.
[0042] In the preferred embodiment, each hole 62, 64 and 66 defined by the
universal
adapter 60 has a closed marginal edge 68. In a most preferred form, the closed
marginal edge 68 of each hole or opening 62, 64 and 66 is generally circular.
Moreover, and to further enhance the versatility of the hinge structure 50,
the closed
marginal edge 68 of the majority of openings 62, 64 and 66 are preferably of
different
sizes relative to each other.
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[0043] As will be appreciated, the universal adapter 60 can have differing
constructions without detracting or departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. For example, in one form, adapter 60 can be of one-piece
construction and
be releasably secured to the second end portion of structure 50. In a
preferred form,
shown in FIG. 4, adapter 60 includes a pair of axially spaced identical
apertured inserts
or modular structures 60' and 60" positioned and held at opposite ends of the
recess 54
defined by the hinge structure 50.
100441 The axial spacing between the apertured inserts 60", 60" also adds to
the
versatility of the
hinge structure 50. That is, the hinge pin brackets 34 secured to the railcar
roof 12
(FIG. 2) can have different spacings between the upstanding arms 38, 38'. As
shown
in FIG. 4, the second end portion of hinge structure 50 is preferably designed
to be fit
between and be embraced by the upright arms 38, 38' to which it is pivotally
connected. The axial spacing between the inserts 60', 60" comprising the
universal
adapter 60 readily allows different hinge structure designs each having a
width
commensurate with the lateral spacing between the bracket arms 38, 38" to be
interchangeability used to connect the hatch cover to brackets of differing
widths.
[0045] To affect proper positioning of the inserts 60', 60" within socket 54
of the
hinge structure 50, and as further shown in FIG. 4, the socket or recess 54
preferably
defines shoulders 58 disposed axially inward from opposed sides of the hinge
structure
50 for limiting the extent to which each piece 60', 60" can be axially
inserted within
the recess 54. As will be appreciated, after inserts 60', 60" are positioned
in the recess
54 the appropriately sized hinge structure 50 is arranged in operable relation
relative to
a respective bracket 34, with the upstanding arms 38, 38' of the respective
bracket 34
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CA 02488683 2004-11-30
maintaining the modular inserts 60', 60" preferably comprising universal
adapter 60 in
place relative to hinge structure socket 54.
[0046] Preferably, and to further enhance the versatility and usefulness of
the
invention in
combination with a variety of different hinge pin brackets (FIG. 2), a
plurality of
modular inserts or apertured pieces can be interchangeably used to form the
universal
adapter 60. A few examples of differing types of modular inserts or apertured
pieces
are shown in FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 and are represented generally by reference
numerals 80,
90 and 100. As shown, each insert 80, 90 and 100 has an outer configuration or
profile substantially corresponding to each other and to the marginal edge 55
defined
by the socket or recess 54 in the hinge structure 50 (FIG. 2) whereby allowing
for
quick and ready interchangeability between the modular inserts.
[00471 In a preferred form, hinge structure 50 and that apertured insert 80,
90 and 100
forming
the universal adapter 60 are configured such that an insert 80, 90 and 100 can
be
releasably accommodated or secured within the socket or recess 54 in a
predetermined
relationship relative to the remainder of the hinge structure 50. That is, in
a preferred
embodiment, each insert 80, 90, 100 forming the universal adapter 60 can be
received
and accommodated within the recess or socket 54 of the hinge structure 50 in
only one
way or manner. This preferred design insures the vertical and lateral spacings
of each
hole or opening 62, 64 and 66 in the universal adapter 60 can be quickly and
easily
predetermined, thus, readily allowing a proper combination of insert 80, 90
and 100
relative to the hinge pin bracket 34 to which structure 50 is to be hingedly
connected.
100481 As will be appreciated, there are numerous ways and means for limiting
the
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CA 02488683 2004-11-30
arrangements
of inserts 80, 90 and 100 forming the universal adapter 60 in operable
combination
with the hinge structure 50. In the form shown on insert 80 in FIG. 5, the
outer profile
or configuration of each insert Includes two diverging angled surfaces 82 and
84.
Surface 82 is disposed at an angle 0 relative to the longitudinal centerline
86 of the
respective insert while surface 84 is disposed at an angle [i relative to the
longitudinal
centerline 86 of the respective insert. The angles 0 and 0 of surfaces 82 and
84 are
different from each other. As mentioned, the marginal edge 55 defined by the
socket
or recess 54 in hinge member 50 has a substantially corresponding profile to
that
provided on each insert 80, 90 and 100. As such, the apertured pieces 80, 90
and 100
can be inserted in only one manner when arranged in operable combination with
structure 50. Moreover, in those adapter designs using two axially spaced
inserts, the
ability to insert like apertured pieces 60', 60" into operable combination
with the hinge
structure 50 promotes alignment of the holes or openings 62, 64 and 66 in such
like
apertured pieces 60', 60"relative to each other
[00491 Preferably, each modular insert 80, 90, 100 includes three or more
openings
therein. As such, and in the examples shown, the modular inserts 80, 90 and
100 can
accommodate different diameter hinge pins in any of at least ten different
positions
relative to the reference plane RP and the predetermined distance PD between
the axes
63, 65 and 67 of each opening or hole 62, 64 and 66 in the universal adapter
60 and a
suitable reference location on the hinge structure 50.
(00501 Moreover, and as should be appreciated, the apertured pieces 80, 90,
100 are
subject to
different constructions without detracting or detracting from the spirit and
scope of the
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CA 02488683 2004-11-30
invention. For example, each modular insert 80, 90, 100 can be machined from a
solid
block or piece of metal. In a preferred form, however, each modular insert 80,
90, 100
is formed form metal and has a series of sleeve-like openings in different
positions
whereby reducing the weight of the modular inserts and thereby the overall
weight of
the hinge structure 50.
[00511 As mentioned, various hopper car constructions frequently use different
hinge
pin-to-coaming separation distances. Just a few examples of the various hopper
car
constructions having different hinge pin-to-coaming separation distances are
schematically shown in FIG. 8. That is, in FIG. 8, various hinge pin locations
and
openings 40 are schematically illustrated (in phantom lines) relative to the
coaming 30.
As will be appreciated, either the width of the hatch opening 14 (FIG. 1) or
the height
of the coaming 30 can also change, depending upon the particular hopper car
construction, thus, serving to exacerbate problems with interconnecting the
cover
assembly 20 to the railcar while maintaining an appropriate sealing
relationship
between the cover assembly 20 and the railcar coaming 30. In addition, certain
railcar
constructions may also use brackets 34 having hinge pin holes or openings 40
sized to
accommodate a hinge pin of a diameter larger or smaller than the hinge pins
used to
pivotally interconnect other hinge structures to the brackets. As will be
appreciated, in
the field, almost any available hinge pin will be used to interconnect the
hinge
structure to the railcar brackets.
[0052] Before securing the hinge structure 50 to the hatch cover, the spacing
between
the upstanding arms 38, 38' of the hinge pin bracket 34 is determined and a
hinge
structure 50 having an appropriately sized width is selected for connection to
the
bracket 34. After the hinge structure 50 is secured to the hatch covers 20A
through
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CA 02488683 2004-11-30
20D, the relative relation between the hinge pin holes or openings 40 in the
brackets
the hinge structure 50 is determined and the appropriate universal adapter 60
is
selected to affect proper alignment between one of the holes or openings 62,
64, or 66
in the universal adapter 60 with the hinge pin holes or openings 40 in the
bracket 34
whereby allowing the hinge pin to be passed therethrough, thus, allowing for
the
respective hatch cover to be connected to the existing railcar bracket 34 in a
manner
permitting movement of the respective hatch cover between open and closed
positions
about a fixed axis. As a result of affecting alignment between one of the
holes 62, 64
or 66 in the hinge structure 50 with the hinge pin holes or openings 40 in the
railcar
brackets 34, this invention furthermore insures the closed hatch cover
assembly 20 will
be maintained in proper relation relative to the railcar coaming 30 to affect
a proper
seal therebetween. Thereafter, and should it be determined the universal
adapter used
in connection with one hinge structure will not necessarily work with other
railcar
hinge brackets, the only hinge structure change or reconstruction necessary
involves
simple and easy replacement of one adapter for another adapter rather than
having to
change or incur the time an expense associated with having to alter or change
either
the entire hinge structure or the hinge pin brackets on the railcar.
[0053] In connecting a railroad car hatch cover for pivotal rotation about a
fixed axis
to brackets having aligned openings for receiving a pivot pin defining said
pivot axis
the following procedure is used. Generally speaking, a hinge structure having
a
generally planar portion for facilitating attachment of said hinge structure
to said hatch
cover and defining a reference plane is provided. Moreover, a plurality of
universal
and interchangeable adapters is provided. Each universal adapter allows it to
be
located toward a second end of the hinge structure. With this invention, each
universal
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CA 02488683 2004-11-30
adapter includes multiple openings arranged in generally parallel relationship
relative
to each other, with the openings in the adapter being disposed in a pattern
extending
generally normal to the hinge structure and at differing distances from the
reference
plane defined by said hinge structure. The spacing between a majority of the
openings
in one universal adapter differing from the spacing between the majority of
the
openings in another universal adapter. Then, that universal adapter having an
opening
disposed so as to proximate a distance measurable between the pivot axis
defined by
the aligned openings on the brackets and the reference plane defined by said
hinge
structure is selected whereby allowing the hinge pin to be passed therethrough
whereby interconnecting the hinge structure with the railcar brackets.
[0054] From the above, it should be recognized the present invention comprises
a
significant improvement over the prior art devices by providing a hinge
structure
having a universal adapter capable of mounting a hatch cover to different
types of
railcar brackets having hinge pin holes or openings which are oriented or
positioned
differently relative to coaming on the various railcars and/or which uses
hinge pins of
differing diameters. Moreover, the present invention accomplishes these
results with
minimal time and manual effort being required by not having to change the
railroad
car brackets while concomitantly permitting the hinge structure of the present
invention to remain connected to the hatch cover assembly..
[0055] From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous modifications and
variations can be made and effected without departing or detracting from the
true spirit
and novel concept of the present invention. Moreover, it will be appreciated,
the
present disclosure is intended to set forth an exemplification of the
invention which is
not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiment illustrated.
Rather, this
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disclosure is intended to cover by the appended claims all such modifications
and
variations as fall within the spirit and scope of the claims.
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